A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has convicted and sentenced a tailoring apprentice, Osahon Osamudiamen Frank, to one year in prison for his involvement in an internet fraud scheme that netted him N450,000.
The Charges and Guilty Plea
Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke delivered the judgment on Wednesday, November 20, 2025, after the defendant pleaded guilty to a two-count charge. The charges, brought by prosecutor Mr. Morufu Animashaun from the Force Criminal Investigation Department (Force CID) Annex in Alagbon-Ikoyi, Lagos, detailed the offences.
The first count accused Frank of falsely presenting himself as Linda Patrick, a Canadian lady, between June and September 2025 at Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. This act, intended to defraud people, contravened Section 484 of the Criminal Code Act.
The second count stated that between August and September 2025, also at Eko Hotel, he fraudulently received N450,000 from one Shu Qitang (Tan). He obtained the money under the false pretense of shipping a box from Canada to Nigeria, an offence under the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act 2006.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Upon hearing the charges, Osahon Osamudiamen Frank, who chose to represent himself without a lawyer, admitted his guilt. Following his plea, the prosecutor reviewed the case facts and presented all documentary evidence, including the convict's confessional statement.
Frank then appealed to the court for leniency and mercy. In his ruling, Justice Aneke sentenced the convict to 12 months' imprisonment with an additional order to perform 100 hours of community service.
Financial Repercussions and Fine
The judge also issued a financial penalty. Justice Aneke ordered Frank to pay the sum of N450,000 into the Consolidated Revenue Account of the Federal Government. This payment serves as a fine option in lieu of the jail term.
This case highlights the continued efforts of the Nigerian judiciary to combat cybercrime and serves as a stern warning to other potential offenders.
